About us
Our goal is to combine nature's magnificence, a good workout, and the support and laughter of friends. An observer of one of our early hikes noted that our group is like a mobile party, and we feel that captures our spirit beautifully. All that's missing is you, so get out here with us!
Our hikes are free, and our leaders are volunteers. However, we ask for voluntary contributions once a year ($3-$5) to help defray Meetup subscription costs.
Please review before you register for a hike:
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We step off on the stated hike time, and recommend that you arrive 15 minutes early to get a good parking spot and have time to gear up.
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The number of hikers will not exceed 24, including the leader. This will allow us to hike on COSCA trails, State Park, and National trails without having to obtain a permit in advance. This also means that if you are on the waitlist, or you show up and have not registered (including “Plus-Ones”), you will be turned away.
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Sorry, no dogs allowed, either on-leash, off-leash, or in "Doggy Backpacks."
Welcome to the Weekday Trailblazers!
The Blazers are led equally by a dedicated cadre of experienced volunteer hike leaders, in a true communal spirit, with no charge for hikes or events (with rare exceptions).
You can help us defray our costs by buying Weekday Trailblazers gear (each purchase kicks in $3-$5 to the kitty):
The majority of our hikes fall within the area from Malibu to Simi Valley (south to north), and Will Rogers State Park to Port Hueneme (east to west), although we'll venture beyond those loose boundaries when we feel like it (we are Trailblazers, after all). We offer hikes of varying levels, as well as occasional non-hiking events.
- Our Intermediate Hikes generally start at 8:30 AM on Tuesdays (earlier in the heat of the summer). Total distance is 7-10 miles (less in the heat of the summer), 3-3.5 mph, and with elevation gain between 1,500' and 2,000', less in the heat of the summer. We would rate them as intermediate for difficulty and pace. We have a strong roster of leaders for these hikes, but ANYONE is welcome to lead. Contact Steve J, Laurie, Peter, or Katie with your ideas.
- Gentler-Friendly Hikes are scheduled on most Thursday and some Tuesday mornings at 9 AM, earlier in the heat of the summer. These hikes are tailored for advanced beginners, or anyone wanting a little extra fun with friends. As the name implies, they're slower-paced (2-2.5 mph), shorter distance (usually 5-6 miles), and lesser elevation gain (less than 1,500') than our flagship hikes. Contact Steve J with ideas for Gentler hikes.
- Gentler / Intermediate are somewhere in between.
We also occasionally run:
- Beginner Hikes are scheduled on Thursday mornings at 9 AM, earlier in the heat of the summer. These hikes are tailored for those new to the group, new to hiking, or those rehabbing injuries. They're slow-paced (2 mph), short distance (usually <5 miles), and little elevation gain (~500'). Contact Steve J with ideas for Beginner hikes.
- Fast-Paced Hikes start in the late afternoon/early evening (two hours or so before sunset), and are as fast or faster than our intermediate hikes. Headlamps recommended!
- Geologist Thom Davis' Rock & Stroll Hikes combine his expansive knowledge of the Earth's bones and our usual workout in natural beauty. Many events will be outside our normal stomping grounds, and some will involve overnight stays. Times and ability levels vary, so be sure to read the write-ups carefully, and contact Thom with any questions.
We cancel hikes for red flag warnings, when the temperature is 90 or higher, or when the Heat Index (also sometimes called Temperature Humidity Index or Wet Bulb Temperature) is 85 or higher at any time during a hike.
The Blazers welcome and encourage whatever level of participation you'd like. You can be out in front leading, in the pack enjoying the ride, or sweeping in the back. We value your contributions, so join our mobile party and let's have fun!
We also ask that you be aware of the signs of Heat Exhaustion and Heat Stroke, know what to do about them (for your own safety and for the safety of others around you). Just google "Mayo Clinic Heat Stroke Exhaustion", or buy one of our Heat Safety T-Shirts!
We also ask that hikers be prepared with:
- Hiking shoes appropriate for the terrain
- Loose-fitting clothing appropriate for the conditions (generally, this means no denim or jeans)
- A broad-brimmed hat
- Water
- Electrolytes (Gatorade, Nuun tablets, etc)
- Sunscreen
While not responsible for your safety, our hike leaders may adjust, shorten, re-route, or terminate a hike based on conditions, at their sole discretion.
Please read the release of liability below in its entirety. By signing up for our group, you are agreeing to it for all events you participate in.
DISCLAIMER / RELEASE OF LIABILITY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.
Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers and hosts are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group, its organizers, and hosts from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
Sorry, we don't allow "Plus-Ones" on our hikes. Please join the group, then sign up for a hike.
Upcoming events
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Ray Miller Trail - Gentler
Ray Miller Trailhead, Malibu, CA, USThis hike will be a gentler out-and-back hike with our scheduled turnaround point at the fire road (Overlook Trail), hopefully the mosquitos are gone but bring spray.
Ray Miller is an awesome blend of ocean and mountain views in Malibu’s La Jolla Canyon. We will start from the trailhead which follows the canyon eastward, away from the ocean. Then, it quickly brings you back toward the ocean at a gradual incline. There’s a great lookout spot (approx. 2 1/4 mile mark) where you get an iconic view of the Pacific Coast Highway against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean, with sweeping views toward Mugu Rock on the west, Sycamore Cove on the east, and, if we're lucky, the Channel Islands, they have been very visible lately.
This is a 5-6 mile out and back hike with an elevation gain/loss of about 1000’. Bring water and Off!
Directions:
From Los Angeles, take the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) north, 22 miles from Malibu Canyon Rd. Across the street from Thornhill Broome Beach is the entrance to La Jolla Canyon. It is very clearly marked. Turn right.
From Ventura, take PCH eastward, and turn left 4 miles after Las Posas Road into La Jolla Canyon.
Heads up: There is a parking fee in the lot (or free with state parking pass). There is free parking on PCH just a short walk to the trailhead.
Please review the guidelines (guidelines) to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:- Don't show up unless you're shown on the "Attending" list.
- Plan on completing the entire hike at a moderate pace.
- **Please bring sunscreen and consider bringing mosquito spray as bugs may be present. **.
DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY - PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group or its safety. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No "Plus Ones" or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.21 attendees
Summit to Summit Motorway
Summit Valley Edmund D. Edelman Park, Topanga, CA 90290, USA, Topanga, CA, USOn a clear day, you can see forever!
The Summit to Summit Motorway is a well-maintained fire road along a ridgeline. The wide multi-use path has some steep sections but is mild in elevation gain (764' according to AllTrails on the 6 mile route). There are lovely views of Topanga Canyon and the San Fernando Valley, and this is a quiet road to enjoy outdoor recreation.
Please review the guidelines (link to the guidelines) to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:- Don't show up unless you're shown on the "Attending" list.
- Plan on KEEPING UP with the group and completing the entire hike at a moderate pace**,** or please find an alternative hike that better suits your hiking level.
- No "Plus Ones" or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.
DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY - PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.18 attendees
Bobcats on the Skyline - A Semi-Gentler Rock 'n Roller
3250 Foothill Drive, 3250 Foothill Dr, Thousand Oaks, CA 91361, USA, Thousand Oaks, CA, USWe don't often start at the Foothill Drive trailhead for the eastern Los Robles Trail System, so let's correct that by doing a 5.3-mile, 800' lazy figure-8 hike out of there.
This area is well-known for its loose rocks, and the first mile or so of the route is particularly rocky, with a couple of giant steps up the hillside. We won't be returning that way, so one less thing to worry about.
Gloves and one trekking pole recommended (you will need one hand to steady yourself on the steps up). The middle mile of the hike is also quite rocky, but once we're back on the fire road, things smooth out, with even some shade on the return route. The last mile is a trail that I had never been on before scouting the route (Scott has already told me that he's very familiar with the route).
Our route will include the relatively new Bobcat and Skyline Trails, and if you look closely at who has adopted the trail, you'll find the name of a recent new member of WTB!
Directions:
Exit 101 at Hampshire and drive southeast just past the construction. Turn right at the Sinclair station onto Foothill Drive, and look for permitted parking along the road. The trailhead is at the crook in the road up ahead on the left, with a Montessori school on the right and apartment buildings on the left.
Please review the guidelines to join our hikes.
Restrictions apply for your safety and ours:- Don't show up unless you're shown on the "Attending" list.
- Plan on completing the entire hike at a moderate pace.
- All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
- No "Plus Ones" or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.
- Sunscreen and bug spray suggested.
DISCLAIMER/RELEASE OF LIABILITY - PLEASE READ IN ITS ENTIRETY
The hike host is a volunteer and not responsible for the group or its safety. Safety should be a priority for everyone in the group. Please treat this meet-up as hiking with a group of friends. If you become fatigued and unable to continue the hike, it is expected you will advise the hike host of this and return to our starting point on your own. If you are able to proceed, it is expected that you will maintain line of sight with other members of the group at all times and help to promote the group’s safety and fitness goals.Outdoor sports and other events we plan can be inherently dangerous and accidents may happen. By participating in any posted event, you are taking responsibility for your own safety and well-being. The Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers are not trained leaders and we do not confirm the qualifications of any of its members to lead or participate in trips. All participants take full responsibility for their own actions.
If you choose to sign up for this or any Weekday Trailblazers Meetup event, you are releasing the Weekday Trailblazers Meetup Group and its organizers from all liability in case of possible injuries. Your personal safety depends on your own judgment and experience.
All participants must be 18 or older, or accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. No "Plus Ones" or dogs on Weekday Trailblazer hikes.25 attendees
Past events
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